Roach: Ramsay Hunt syndrome painful case of the shingles

Dear Dr. Roach: My 51-year-old son developed a case of shingles, which left the right side of his face paralyzed. It affected his eye and caused hearing loss. His doctor told my son that this is called Ramsay Hunt syndrome. They could not say when the facial nerve will be back to normal. My son has been living with this paralyzed facial nerve for eight months, with no improvement. Can you give me any information regarding this virus? - J.E.

Dr. Roach: I'm afraid I don't have any good news. Ramsay Hunt syndrome, also called Herpes zoster oticus, is a complication of shingles when it affects the facial and auditory nerves. Early treatment (within three days of the onset of rash, but preferably as soon as possible) reduces the risk of the complications you describe. Facial paralysis is usually permanent if it hasn't resolved by three months. Hearing loss also often is permanent. Some people also experience dizziness and vertigo.

The disease can be prevented by the shingles vaccine, which is recommended for everyone over 60.

The booklet on shingles explains this common condition in greater detail.

Readers can order a copy by writing: Dr. Roach - No. 1201, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Can. with the recipient's printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Email this article

Roach: Ramsay Hunt syndrome painful case of the shingles

Dear Dr. Roach: My 51-year-old son developed a case of shingles, which left the right side of his face paralyzed. It affected his eye and caused hearing loss. His doctor told my son that this is